The Reach Bar and Kitchen - Gallions Reach - London *

January has been a month of post-feasting depression.
It's that time of year where you stare at yourself in the mirror and say to yourself "Dayyym what have I become?!." *cry sulk cry*
We've all been there.
I feel your pain.
I have become a whale too.
I know some of you have already started those New Year's work outs.
Some of you have taken that extra mile and have started your New Year diets.
Good for you. Well done. Kudos.
BUT I've fractured my foot (toe), so til that's healed I'm just going to sit here proudly and show you ALL what you've been missing out on.
Crostini with topped with salmon, and/or parma ham and tomatoes  Asian style Prawns served with aioli & deep fried, breadcrumb encrusted brieClose upYeahhh look at her drip...Butternut squash soup Fresh mussels cooked a la Mariniere (white wine, fresh chopped parsley, garlic and onion)Juicy morsels for the pickingLamb cutlets with rosemary juice and homemade creamy mash
Bruschetta with portobello mushrooms topped with melted blue cheeseLemon meringue pie
Jealous? ;]
Ambiance?
The Reach is set in an old grade II listed building, so has that Old English vibe. 
It's warm, dark and cosy inside; I nestled myself on the cushioned seating next to the window where you can gaze out to the Thames.
I was invited to the launch of The Reach Bar & Kitchen, and had the pleasure to sample teasers of the whole menu.
Sex Appeal?

To be perfectly honest, I didn't really know what to expect as once you walk in, The Reach is essentially a pub; and normally for me pub food is to be enjoyed whilst nursing a hangover :P
So I was really impressed with the bounty presented before me.
Starters:
Crostini with topped with salmon, and/or parma ham and tomatoes  
Asian style prawns served with aioli & deep fried breadcrumb encrusted brie
Butternut squash soup 

Mains:
Fresh mussels cooked a la Mariniere (white wine, fresh chopped parsley, garlic and onion)
Lamb cutlets with rosemary juice and homemade creamy mash
Bruschetta with portobello mushrooms topped with melted blue cheese

Dessert:
Lemon meringue pie

Every single dish screamed quality produce, something you can tell instantly with the likes of prawns and mussels.
The fresh mussels cooked a la Mariniere (white wine, fresh chopped parsley, garlic and onion) were really amazing, if only I had bread to soak up the sauce. Mmm...
But the real winner was the melted, oozing brie armoured with golden breadcrumbs; but maybe I just have a weakness for anything that drips all over my fingers.

…don't you?
YumMEI or YumNEI?
I had my doubts about traveling so crazily far for a pub, but it is definitely worth a try.
Or if you're located close by, then here's a great new hunting ground.
I know what I'd go back for :P
8/10 Yummei's
Where?

The Reach Bar and Kitchen
Gallions Hotel,
Albert Basin Way,
London,
E16 2QZ